LITTLE ROCK  DEAR HELOISE: I love using the dye-trapping in wash cloths, but they can be expensive. Sometimes, I’ll throw one in a load because I have one or two colored items and I’m not sure if their colors might run. When the load is done and I remove the sheet, if it’s still white, I save it and throw it in with another load, and it works fine.

I can sometimes use the same sheet two or more times before I have to throw it out. I take the sheets right out of the washer, though. I don’t let them run through the dryer.

Sandra in Northern Virginia

DEAR READER: A major manufacturer of this type of product says not to reuse the cloths - to ensure best results, use a fresh cloth every time. My hint? Try cutting it in half for a small load to save a little.

DEAR READERS: Here are hints for stale bread:

Use to make croutons or bread crumbs.

Use to make French toast.

Feed to wild birds or ducks.

Make into bread pudding.

As a meatloaf thickener.

DEAR READERS: A previous column shared how to get Valentine cards stamped with a special postmark. Well, what about other days of the year - an anniversary, birthday or other special occasion? Would you like a special postmark for those days?

Here are just a few cities that have re-mailing programs that might be perfect for a special occasion:

For a little romance, try Romance, Ark. (72136).

To send some love, Loving, N.M. (88256).

Or try Darling, Miss. (38623).

To have your cards postmarked, send them, pre-addressed and stamped, in a larger envelope to the Postmaster of (selected city), Re-mailing Program. What a wonderful surprise for someone you love!

DEAR HELOISE: We have king and queen beds in our house, with three sets of sheets for both. We stored them in the hall closet with the towels, etc., which became quite cramped.

I put them in plastic bags and stored them under their respective beds. Eventually, I accumulated heavier-duty plastic bags with zippers that quilts come in, so now I use those. Saves a lot of room in the closet.